Why I Said ‘I’m Not Black’ and What I Meant episode artwork

EPISODE · May 24, 2026 · 23 MIN

Why I Said ‘I’m Not Black’ and What I Meant

from All About The Joy · host Carmen Lezeth Suarez

In this episode, I share a childhood story that shaped how I understand race, identity, and the language we use to describe ourselves. What started as an innocent moment between two little girls turned into years of confusion — not because I didn’t know who I was, but because I didn’t yet have the words.I talk about the difference between race, ethnicity, and culture, why those distinctions matter, and how misunderstandings around them still shape our conversations today. This isn’t about blame — it’s about clarity, compassion, and learning to see the systems we’re all moving through.If you’ve ever struggled to explain your identity, or wondered why these conversations feel so charged, this one might give you a new way to think about it.Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.  You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee. We'd appreciate that greatly.  Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481Editing by Team A-JHost, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance. 

In this episode, I share a childhood story that shaped how I understand race, identity, and the language we use to describe ourselves. What started as an innocent moment between two little girls turned into years of confusion — not because I didn’t know who I was, but because I didn’t yet have the words. I talk about the difference between race, ethnicity, and culture, why those distinctions matter, and how misunderstandings around them still shape our conversations today. This isn’t about bl...

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Why I Said ‘I’m Not Black’ and What I Meant

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This episode was published on May 24, 2026.

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In this episode, I share a childhood story that shaped how I understand race, identity, and the language we use to describe ourselves. What started as an innocent moment between two little girls turned into years of confusion — not because I didn’t...

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